Adapting to a Changing Landscape in Healthcare

Focusing on safety and the continued support of the Commonwealth’s healthcare system, the House recently passed H4888, a broad bill centered around adapting to a post-COVID-19 landscape in the administration of healthcare. The bill’s main focus was the integration of telehealth services, which has become the go-to for most patients and doctors alike. The bill requires both public and private insurers to treat telehealth services the same as in-person doctor visits, with co-payments and deductibles not exceeding the in-person rates.

Several amendments were adopted on the House floor, including a proposal requiring providers to offer coverage for all emergency and inpatient services relative to COVID-19 to now include all medically necessary outpatient testing, including testing of asymptomatic patients. Additionally, an amendment was passed giving physicians and nurse practitioners more autonomy in administering prescriptions and refills of medication without requiring in-person visits.

Through co-sponsoring a measure taken by Rep. Ruth Balser of Newton, I was able to help advocate for the creation of a Personal Protective Equipment Exchange. The Exchange would serve as an intermediary between PPE manufacturers and healthcare providers, specifically eldercare providers. After the COVID-19 pandemic hit the Commonwealth’s nursing homes especially hard, the importance of adequate PPE has taken center stage in anticipation of a possible spike in cases. Through the Exchange, manufacturers and providers have access to a direct channel of communication, further ensuring the safety of patients and healthcare providers.